Strictly Judge's Heartbreaking Family Health Update
Shirley Ballas, the head judge on BBC's Strictly Come Dancing, has delivered a sobering health update concerning her elderly mother, Audrey. The 65-year-old dancer revealed that her 88-year-old mother's condition, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), is a progressive illness that will continue to deteriorate.
The Reality of Living with COPD
Shirley, who lives with her mother to provide full-time care, explained the distressing nature of the disease. She has personally witnessed her mother choke and struggle to breathe, confirming that the condition, diagnosed in 2022, is 'never going to get better'. According to the NHS, the breathing problems caused by COPD gradually worsen, severely limiting normal activities.
Speaking on BBC Breakfast, Shirley shared that her mum had been unwell for many years prior to the official diagnosis. She described how repeated visits to the doctor eventually led to a hospital referral and the life-changing diagnosis.
Joining the Fight for Better Care
In response to her mother's illness, Shirley Ballas has partnered with the healthcare company Sanofi on an awareness campaign. The initiative aims to encourage people living with COPD to remain physically and socially active.
She highlighted the importance of the campaign, stating that many across the country do not receive adequate care or may not even know they have the 'invisible' disease. Shirley emphasised the need to help others access the right support and learn how to manage their condition effectively.
The situation has profoundly impacted their daily lives. Shirley confessed it is 'quite sad' to see her mother, who sometimes feels too embarrassed to go out, become increasingly housebound. The pair now typically only leave the house once a week to avoid potential illness and the distress of public breathing difficulties.
